Do Lip and Tongue Piercings Affect Your Oral Health?
Posted on 11/1/2024 by The Center for Esthetic Dentistry
For many people, body piercings are a way to express their individuality and style. Lip and tongue piercings are especially popular, but many people don't realize that these piercings can have a significant impact on their oral health.
How Piercings Affect Your Oral Health
When you get a lip or tongue piercing, you're essentially creating an open wound in your mouth. This wound is susceptible to infection, especially if proper oral hygiene is not maintained. Additionally, the metal jewelry used in piercings can irritate the gums and tongue, leading to swelling, pain, and even receding gums.
Here are some of the specific ways lip and tongue piercings can affect your oral health:
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Increased risk of infection: The mouth is full of bacteria, and a piercing creates an open wound that is vulnerable to infection. This can lead to pain, swelling, and even abscesses.
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Damage to teeth and gums: The metal jewelry used in piercings can rub against your teeth and gums, causing chips, cracks, and even gum recession. This can lead to sensitivity, pain, and an increased risk of tooth decay.
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Speech problems: Tongue piercings can interfere with your ability to speak clearly, especially if the piercing is located near the tip of your tongue.
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Nerve damage: In rare cases, tongue piercings can damage the nerves in your tongue, leading to numbness or tingling.
Preventing Problems with Lip and Tongue Piercings
If you choose to get a lip or tongue piercing, it's important to take steps to prevent problems. Here are some tips:
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Choose a reputable piercer: Make sure your piercer is experienced and uses sterile equipment.
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Follow proper aftercare instructions: Your piercer will give you specific instructions on how to care for your piercing. Be sure to follow these instructions carefully.
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Maintain good oral hygiene: Brush your teeth and tongue twice a day and floss daily. This will help to remove plaque and bacteria that can cause infection.
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See your dentist regularly: Be sure to see your dentist for regular checkups and cleanings. This will help to identify any problems early on.
Should You Get a Lip or Tongue Piercing?
The decision of whether or not to get a lip or tongue piercing is a personal one. If you're considering getting a piercing, it's important to weigh the risks and benefits carefully. If you do decide to get a piercing, be sure to choose a reputable piercer, follow proper aftercare instructions, and maintain good oral hygiene. This will help to minimize the risk of complications.
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For many people, body piercings are a way to express their individuality and style. Lip and tongue piercings are especially popular, but many people don't realize that these piercings can have a significant impact on their oral health.